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What was your motivation to enroll in GraSPP?
While working for the Embassy of Japan in the DC area, I considered applying to public policy programs in DC, Boston, and New York. However, the immense cost of those programs, coupled with their large class sizes, prompted me to explore alternatives. GraSPP, at roughly one-tenth of the cost and with its small, intimate classes, immediately stood out. I was also drawn to the program’s rigorous training in mathematics and statistics, which was essential for my goal of transitioning to a quantitative analyst role.
Looking back, I’m extremely glad I made the decision to attend GraSPP, as it led to my PhD (I graduated in 2024 but continue to research central bank communications) and current work as a data scientist.
And now, I’m thrilled to return to GraSPP as a guest lecturer, teaching Data Science for Public Policy*. It’s truly rewarding to come back to the place where my academic transformation began.
*Check the faculty page for details: https://www.pp.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/faculty/baird-cory/
What was attractive or stimulating about GraSPP?
GraSPP’s strength lies in its dynamic student body and its faculty of practitioner-professors.
Professionals from central banks and ministries brought invaluable real-world policy insights to the classroom, complemented by professors, many with applied experience at the IMF or within ministries, who offered exceptional guidance, especially my thesis advisor Rudolfs Bems.
This peer-driven learning, coupled with a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, and a strong focus on practical application, made the program both engaging and relevant.
Please share your memorable experiences in GraSPP
Beyond academics, GraSPP fostered a vibrant sense of community. International potlucks, shared with classmates from around the globe, were a particular highlight. Enriching study sessions, where diverse backgrounds and perspectives came to life, and the memorable annual trip to Hakone further strengthened these bonds. These experiences underscored the program’s unique international and deeply supportive environment.
What has GraSPP meant to your life?
GraSPP has been pivotal in my personal and professional life. My closest friends in Tokyo are from my GraSPP cohort, creating a lasting support system. The program directly contributed to my decision to pursue a PhD at the University of Maryland and my current data science career. It’s hard to overstate the impact GraSPP had on my professional trajectory and personal growth.
I also maintain strong relationships with former professors who continue to support my professional development.
Did the school life at GraSPP affect your career?
GraSPP fundamentally changed my career trajectory, transitioning me into a quantitative data scientist and econometrician. The skills I gained led directly to roles at my previous workplace as an economic forecaster and now as a data scientist at GeoQuant. My thesis research sparked my interest in monetary policy, leading to my PhD studies at the University of Maryland where I focused on monetary policy shocks and central bank communications. GraSPP opened doors to new opportunities and provided the foundation for my professional growth.
Any advice or comments for prospective or incumbent students?
Don’t let the quantitative aspects intimidate you; they’re manageable. Embrace the opportunity to learn from your diverse classmates, especially those with public sector experience. Balance your studies with engaging in the program’s community and cultural experiences. Leverage the professors’ expertise and build strong connections with your peers. The skills and relationships you develop at GraSPP will be invaluable for your career.
And of course, I strongly encourage students to take my Data Science for Public Policy course, where I will be teaching cutting-edge machine learning algorithms and LLM integration, including tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, to equip you with the latest techniques for tackling real-world policy challenges.